Ōmokoroa: Our Seaside Paradise
Some say Ōmokoroa means ‘the long lizard’ in Māori and the pace of life in this coastal settlement is certainly relaxed and unhurried. This is a place to unwind by the sea and enjoy the friendly community, beautiful walks and immaculate gardens that grace this peninsula. Ōmokoroa is only 20-kilometres northwest of Tauranga’s CBD and locals often say they live in paradise – which is why this town is now so popular! It’s expected to double in size in the next few years with new homes and facilities springing up everywhere.
Here’s what not to miss on your next visit...
ŌMOKOROA TO TAURANGA CYCLE TRAIL
You can now cycle all the way from A to B along this fantastic 19-kilometres route. This cycleway hugs the Ōmokoroa peninsula and gradually heads inland at Plummers Point and Te Puna. It comprises new and existing off-road gravel pathways, boardwalks and local road connections so you can take the scenic route and enjoy some exercise at the same time. For a detailed map on where it will lead you, check out the Western Bay of Plenty webpage.
Tour Ōmokoroa by e-Bike — Te Ara Tourism offer guided Māori tourism experiences and an e-Bike tour is the perfect way to explore the peninsula whilst learning about the history in area.
SWIM AT THE BEACH
You’ll find a nice sandy beach in front of Ōmokoroa Domain, near the tip of the peninsula and just along from the local Boat Club. The waves gently lap the shore, making it ideal for small children and those who just want a quiet dip. Park up beneath the pōhutukawa and let the kids loose on the Domain Playground or work up a sweat before a swim with some wheeled play back down the road at the Skate Path and playground at the Western Ave Sports Grounds.
TREAT YOUR TASTEBUDS
Award-winning Alma Eatery on the Esplanade serves up authentic Italian fare and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Sunday. The owners have previously run The General and Alpino – two of Mount Maunganui’s most popular cafes – so you can expect something special when you dine here. Ōmokoroa Beach Pizzeria serves up the crispiest bases and most delicious home-made pizzas in the Bay! Their menu changes with the seasons and you’ll always find quality ingredients including fresh herbs on their yummy creations. The Rising Tide a Mount Maunganui favourite, has set up a second location in Ōmokoroa a must visit for fans of craft beer and delicious dumpings.
GOLF ANYONE?
Ōmokoroa Golf Club is one of the most scenic 18 holes you’ll find anywhere in the Bay of Plenty – or possibly the country! Stretched along the northern base of the peninsula, you’ll enjoy sweeping views across Tauranga Harbour and a well-groomed, challenging course. Casual players are welcome at this friendly club and green fees are good value for money.
TAKE A STROLL
Ōmokoroa is regarded as one of the prettiest settlements in our region and if you take a walk, it’s not hard to see why. The Gerald Crapp Historic Reserve is a very popular spot and runs around the headland of Ōmokoroa Peninsula on top of some very steep cliffs. There’s a fantastic collection of native and exotic trees including one eye-catching tree stump which has been carved into the likeness of Rev Joseph Tice Gellibrand – Ōmokoroa’s first European settler. You can also explore the historic Wai-Huri Pa site here and admire beautiful gardens and cliff-top homes. If you really want to stretch your legs, check out the 9km Peninsula Loop walk via the Ōmokoroa Golf Club and Cooney Reserve. This all-weather walkway, installed by Western Bay of Plenty District Council, skirts around the edge of the peninsula and provides safe access and lovely ocean views.
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